FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 18, 2018) – The Kentucky Division of Abandoned Mine Lands (DAML) is pleased to announce that DAML will partner with the City of Hazard to construct a waterline system to supply potable water to approximately 125 Perry County homes.

County residents in Puncheon Camp Branch, Walker Lane, Bob Hollow, Couchtown Road, Laurel Mountain Road and Forked Mouth Road, whose wells have been affected by AML-eligible mines, are expected to have access to a new source of clean drinking water by the end of the year.

Bid documents are being prepared and funding for the $2.1 million project will be available on July 1 through a DAML grant. The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet will enter into a memorandum of agreement with the City of Hazard to construct the waterline project with DAML oversight. The project is expected to take four months.

State Senator Brandon Smith and Representative Chris Fugate were instrumental in pushing for the $2.1 million project.

“This project will make a big difference to the people of Perry County whose wells are affected,” Rep. Fugate said. “I appreciate all the planning and resources that have been put towards this.”

Sen. Smith said: “I am thrilled to see this partnership between the Division of Abandoned Mine Lands and the City of Hazard realized through the construction of this new waterline.”

Cabinet Secretary Charles Snavely said the water project is just one example of how DAML helps citizens throughout Kentucky whose properties have been impacted by the state’s mining legacy.

“Whether it’s bringing clean water to homes or shoring up hillsides that threaten businesses or schools, the Division of Abandoned Mine Lands has skillfully leveraged federal dollars to help many citizens of the Commonwealth,” Sec. Snavely said.

Since 1982, DAML has spent $150 million for waterline improvements, providing more than 22,000 household and businesses potable water supply in 24 coalfield counties.